Constructing Arguments

What is a claim in an argument?

• A personal opinion

• The evidence supporting an argument

• The main position the author argues

• A summary of the text

Which word signals a counterargument in a text?

• Therefore

• However

• Additionally

• Consequently

Why is it important to address counterarguments?

• It shows you’ve ignored other perspectives.

• It makes your writing longer and appeal to higher academic audiences.

• It focuses only on your main argument.

• It strengthens your claim with fairness and credibility.

What is one way to evaluate evidence in an argument?

• Ignore the evidence that contradicts your opinion.

• Check if the evidence is credible and supports the claim.

• Focus only on the author's tone.

• Only use opinions as evidence.

Based on the slides, what is synthesis?

• Summarizing a single text

• Comparing facts without forming a new idea

• Combining insights from texts to create a new understanding

• Rewriting an author’s perspective

Which of these is an example of a counterargument?

• "However, it can also foster global connections."

• "Additionally, social media harms communication skills."

• "In the same way, studies show social media increases loneliness."

• "Social media creates misinformation."

What should you consider when evaluating an author’s perspective?

• Their personal background only

• Whether their tone is formal or informal

• Any biases or assumptions they may have

• If they agree with your perspective

How can contrasting statements help find a counterargument?

• They summarize the main argument.

• They highlight the evidence used in a claim.

• They repeat the same idea for emphasis.

• They reveal areas where authors disagree.

What is the final step in constructing an argument?

• State your claim

• Address counterarguments

• Synthesize perspectives into a cohesive conclusion

• Summarize evidence from one text

Why is evidence important in constructing arguments?

• It convinces the reader by supporting the claim.

• It replaces the need for claims.

• It makes the writing more personal.

• It creates an emotional response.